The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now recommending that we wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, like grocery stores and pharmacies. This is especially important in areas of significant community-based transmission like ours.

Therefore, all Pelham residents are advised to adopt this important practice, effective immediately.

Additionally, employees of local businesses, restaurants and grocery stores are advised to wear face coverings at any time when interacting with the public. Please ensure compliance with this guidance as soon as is practicable.

A face covering can be any number of things like a handkerchief, cloth napkin, a scarf or a bandana. An appropriate face covering should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include multiple layers of fabric, allow for breathing without restriction, and be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.

To be clear: the cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.

Please remember that wearing a mask is meant to complement other protection measures like staying home, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding other people. Please continue to comply with previous advisories and practice social distancing at all times.